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Economic Development Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Oakgov

College Intern - Economic Development

Waterford, MI · Hybrid

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

... development, economic vitality, and place-based initiatives. Gather, organize, and analyze community data, economic vitality statistics, building inventories, or other information to assist with ...

Spicer Group

Land Development Director

Bingham Farms, MI · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

This pivotal role drives the strategic execution of high-profile projects, delivering transformative urban planning, redevelopment, and economic development solutions that shape communities and set ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Jobs in Detroit, MI

Economic Development information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$30.6K

$101.8K

$153.2K

How much do economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development in Detroit, MI is $101,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is economic development?

Economic development refers to the process by which the economic well-being and quality of life of a region, community, or country are improved. This typically involves efforts to create jobs, attract investment, support businesses, enhance infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth. Professionals in economic development work with government agencies, private sector partners, and community organizations to create strategies that foster economic opportunities and address local challenges. Their goal is to build resilient economies that benefit all residents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development professional?

To thrive as an Economic Development professional, you need a background in economics, public administration, or urban planning, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS software, project management platforms, and knowledge of relevant regulations or certifications like CEcD are essential. Strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for successfully attracting investment, fostering sustainable growth, and collaborating with stakeholders to drive community prosperity.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in economic development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Economic Development professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders, navigating complex regulatory environments, and securing funding for projects. Success in this field requires strong communication and negotiation skills to build consensus among government officials, business leaders, and community members. Proactively staying updated on policy changes, leveraging data-driven approaches, and building strong partnerships can help address these challenges and drive impactful outcomes.

What is the difference between Economic Development vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic DevelopmentUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, public policy, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, consulting firmsMunicipalities, government agencies, private planning firms
Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and community developmentFocuses on land use, zoning, and urban design

While both roles aim to improve communities, economic development professionals focus on boosting local economies and attracting businesses, whereas urban planners concentrate on land use, zoning, and urban design to shape city landscapes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Economic Development jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Economic Development jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Economic Development job openings:

Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,796 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Economic Development Specialist

ROWE Professional Services Company

Farmington Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Company

ROWE Professional Services Company is an employee-owned, full-service professional consulting firm specializing in civil engineering, surveying, aerial photography/mapping, LiDAR, landscape architecture, planning, and land development.

At ROWE, our core values include safety, quality, people, service, and growth. We are seeking a Economic Development Specialist to join our proactive team of ethical, talented, passionate professionals and leaders at our Farmington Hills, MI office.

Position Summary

The Economic Development Specialist supports ROWE clients in identifying, securing, and managing funding for infrastructure and community development projects. This role blends financial strategy, grant writing, regulatory knowledge, and client relationship management to help communities move projects from concept to construction.

Key Responsibilities

Funding Strategy & Planning

  • Collaborate with engineers, planners, and clients to develop comprehensive funding strategies for community development projects.
  • Identify federal, state, and local grant/loan opportunities (e.g., SRF, USDA-RD, Safety, TAP, Bridge, TEDF, CDBG, EPA programs, etc.).
  • Assist in preparing funding feasibility analyses, rate impact studies, and capital improvement funding plans.

Grant & Loan Administration

  • Support business development efforts and proposal preparation.
  • Lead preparation of grant and loan applications, including narratives, budgets, schedules, and benefit analyses.
  • Coordinate required technical documentation with internal design teams.
  • Track legislative and program changes that affect client funding options.
  • Work with project managers to align project scopes and schedules with funding requirements.
  • Maintain funding opportunity databases and internal best practices.

Job Requirements

  • Degree in Public Administration, Finance, Planning, Business, Professional/Technical Writing or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in grant administration, municipal finance, economic development, or A/E consulting.
  • Direct experience with infrastructure funding programs preferred.
  • Certified Grant Administrator or related economic development credentials preferred
  • Strong technical writing experience preferred
  • Knowledgeable of federal/state procurement and compliance
  • Ability to translate engineering concepts into fundable community benefits
  • Relationship-building and presentation skills
  • Project management and deadline coordination
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work remotely and in person effectively

Why Work Here

ROWE offers a highly competitive wage and benefits package which includes:

  • Overtime pay at time and a half.
  • BCBS medical insurance options with industry-low co-shares.
  • Dental, vision, and employer-paid life insurance plan.
  • A generous PTO program and paid holidays.
  • Flex time scheduling and telework opportunities.
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) options with 4% company match, auto-enroll and target-based funds.

ROWE is truly dedicated to providing a collaborative workspace, rewarding projects, and a business culture that is reputable, ethically minded, and growth driven. With offices in Flint, Lapeer, Farmington Hills, Grand Rapids, Mt. Pleasant, Grayling, Oscoda, MI, and Myrtle Beach, SC, we have lots of opportunity to grow.

WE BUILD CAREERS!

Check us out at:  www.rowepsc.com

Direct Contact Information:

ROWE Professional Services Company

Attn: HR

540 S. Saginaw St., Ste. 200

Flint, MI 48502

employment@rowepsc.com

Equal Opportunity Employer

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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